Some of the drug treatments available include:
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Immunotherapy medications slow the frequency and severity of attacks, which means the myelin sheaths are subjected to less damage; works by modifying the activity of the immune system; most often prescribed for people with relapsing-remitting MS
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Methylprednisolone is taken as pills or an infusion; steroid medication is used to control the severity of an MS attack, by easing inflammation at the affected site
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Immune suppressants such as methotrexate or mitozantrone, are sometimes used, especially for people with progressive MS
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Treatments in development, a large number of new therapies being trialled in the treatment of MS
Get advice about medications
MS Australia does not recommend a particular therapy as this is a clinical decision which you need to make with your neurologist.
MS staff can provide detailed information about medications and discuss what's important in your personal decision making process: contact your state MS society.
Medications Fact Sheets
A treatment sheet for Ocrevus™ is currently under development.
Treatment sheets for Zinbryta® and Fampyra® were recently finalised.
Current information regarding the status of these treatments is provided below:
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Fampyra® (fampridine) |
Fampyra® was approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in 2011 and is available in Australia but is not listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). |
A new treatment sheet for Fampyra® is provided below
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Zinbryta® (daclizumab) |
Zinbryta® was approved by the TGA in September 2016 and is available in Australia; it was listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) on 1 May 2017. |
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Ocrevus™ (ocrelizumab) |
A new MS medication called Ocrevus™ (ocrelizumab) has been approved for use in the USA to treat both relapsing and primary progressive forms of MS, making it the first ever FDA approved medication for primary progressive MS. In Australia we are still awaiting the review from the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) and Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee before we know when the drug may become available. |
More information is available from MS Research Australia: |
If you'd like to be more informed about what specific treatments are available, download the corresponding fact sheets and discuss these treatments with your doctor or neurologist.
Avonex (interferon beta-1a).pdf
Betaferon (interferon beta-1b).pdf
Botox (botulinum toxin type A).pdf
Copaxone (glatiramer acetate).pdf
Plegridy (peginterferon beta-1a).pdf
Rebif (interferon beta-1a).pdf
Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate).pdf
Comparing different MS medications
Trials
Treatment for specific symptoms
- Muscle problems: a combination of medication may ease muscle problems, including stiffness and tremors. Physiotherapy is also recommended.
- Fatigue: some studies have found that medication used to treat the sleep disorder narcolepsy is helpful in controlling MS-related fatigue.
- Neurological symptoms: visual disturbances can be helped with medication, including steroids.
- Continence treatment for continence problems may include special exercises, medications, continence aids (such as disposable pads) and certain dietary changes.
- Neuropsychological problems: treatment for depression or anxiety may include counselling or medication; memory problems and other cognitive difficulties can be better managed with professional help from a neuropsychologist.
Seek professional advice
Get advice from your neurologist or GP about what medical treatments and self-management strategies might be most suitable for you.
Support for you
Every person's experience of living with MS is different. Find the support and services you need to meet your individual circumstances.
Visit MS Research Australia for the latest news and information on multiple sclerosis research.